Description
This two-part workshop provides the tools needed to present and discuss your research at national and international conferences.
Learning Objectives
1. To boost participants’ presentation skills and confidence
2. To add strategic dimensions to giving and discussing presentations
3. To provide useful presentation language to deal with Q&As
Format
Day 1: Concepts, principles and reflection, including insights from Christian Pierce, who will share his personal experiences of presenting and discussing research at academic conferences.
Day 2: Conference simulation with mock presentations and Q&A.
Contents
1. Presentation planning & structure
2. Building confidence & delivery
3. Establishing rapport & audience involvement
4. Dealing with Q&A
5. Useful phrases and expressions
6. Survival guide
Prerequisites
The workshop is open to PhD and postdoctoral candidates seeking to develop their conference skills.
Trainers
Dr. Mark Kyburz is Team Leader English at the HSG Writing Lab. He has taught negotiation and presentation skills at various government institutions (SECO, EDA) and universities in Switzerland, the UK and West Africa. He enjoys giving presentations.
Christian Pierce recently completed his PhD at the University of St.Gallen and brings extensive first-hand experience of academic conferences. He will join the first day of the workshop to share practical insights and perspectives from his own conference experience.
Venue and Times
Day I: 8 October 2026 | 09:00-13:00 | Room 83-3235 (House Washington)
Day II: 22 October 2026 | 09:00-13:00 | Room 83-3235 (House Washington)
Target group
The workshop is open to PhD and postdoctoral candidates seeking to develop their conference skills.
Academic staff from other universities interested in attending should contact fd@unisg.ch.
Language
English
Registration is still possible, subject to availability.